Justice Prakash Shrivastava has been designated as the Chairperson of the National Green Tribunal (NGT), succeeding former Chairperson Justice A.K Goel upon his retirement. This transition marks a pivotal moment for the NGT, accentuating its steadfast dedication to fostering expeditious and impactful environmental adjudication.
Justice Shrivastava’s professional journey commenced on February 2, 1987, as he was enrolled as an Advocate, embarking on practice in the realms of tax law, civil litigation, and constitutional matters within the precincts of the Supreme Court of India in New Delhi. His judicial trajectory saw him ascend to the position of Judge at the High Court of Madhya Pradesh on January 18, 2008, subsequently attaining permanence on January 15, 2010.
Born on March 31, 1961, Justice Shrivastava commenced his legal sojourn in 1987, practicing across the dimensions of tax, civil, and constitutional law at the Supreme Court. His ascendancy continued as he was appointed an Additional Judge at the Madhya Pradesh High Court on January 18, 2008, before being solidified as a permanent fixture on January 15, 2010. Subsequently, Justice Shrivastava adorned the role of Chief Justice at the Calcutta High Court from October 11, 2021, until his retirement on March 30, 2023.
The National Green Tribunal (NGT), a specialized entity established under the National Green Tribunal Act, 2010 by the Government of India, stands as a dedicated platform to administer swift and impactful justice to matters concerning environmental conservation, forest protection, and natural resource preservation. Operating as a quasi-judicial body, the NGT is vested with the authority to deliberate and adjudicate cases related to environmental degradation, pollution, and other issues affecting the ecological equilibrium.
Anchored in New Delhi, the NGT maintains its central headquarters and further extends its reach through five zonal benches situated in Bhopal, Pune, Kolkata, Chennai, and Guwahati. Leading the Tribunal is a Chairperson, typically a retired judge of the Supreme Court or a High Court. Augmenting the leadership are other qualified legal professionals who contribute to the Tribunal’s multifaceted endeavors.
The NGT’s purview encompasses a range of vital functions:
- Deliberation and resolution of matters pertaining to environmental pollution, degradation, and other ecological concerns.
- Issuance of directives, orders, and decrees aimed at safeguarding the environment.
- Awarding compensation for damages inflicted upon the ecosystem.
- Initiating suo motu actions related to environmental safeguarding.
- Undertaking any other responsibilities as stipulated by law.